Former Google Manager Takes Position at Havertys

Kathy Daly-Jennings, a former Google retail industry manager, is joining Atlanta-based furniture retailer Havertys in driving its marketing team. Daly-Jennings will be taking over Thomas Curran’s position. Curran, senior VP for marketing has been with Havertys for a long time and will be retiring from his position at the end of June. Daly-Jennings will be working with Richard Gallagher, the company’s executive VP for merchandising.

Daly-Jennings has been in the Internet industry for 17 years and nine years in marketing and advertising. Her most recent position was Google’s head for industry for retail vertical. She also led the marketing team as multi-channel marketing director for The Home Depot and media innovation director for The Coca-Cola Co.

Clarence Smith, Havertys chairman and president said, “We believe Kathy’s knowledge and skill set will be a valuable asset as we continue expending our efforts in the digital space.” Smith added, “Her experience in serving the retail industry in various marketing and branding roles makes her an excellent fit for our leadership team.”

Gallagher noted of Daly-Jennings’ achievements in the past. With Google, she “specialized in helping brick-and-mortar retailers excel in the digital environment.” Gallagher also cited the work that Daly-Jennings did with Home Depot as she launched the first direct-to-consumer brand. She was also responsible for the marketing opportunities of IBM, MCI, Nike, The Weather Channel and Bell South.

Gallagher also spoke of Curran’s leadership which had a great impact to the success of the company. Currently, Havertys has 118 stores in 16 Southern and Midwestern states.

“He was instrumental in the initial research surrounding our recent store concept and refresh initiatives and was responsible for the development of the marketing of Havertys branded products introduced in 2000.” Gallagher added, “He has steered our advertising and marketing efforts through periods of remarkable change in how we reach our customer: from almost exclusive use of newspapre to direct mail and television, to today’s multi-device hyper connected dynamic marketing.”